Health insurer Wellpoint changes name to Anthem

Washington • The nation's second-biggest health insurer, Wellpoint, said Tuesday that it will change its name to Anthem Inc., the brand associated with most of the company's best known health plans.

CEO Joseph Swedish says in a statement: "We believe it is important to call ourselves by the name that people know best — Anthem."

The name change comes as consumers increasingly shop for their own health benefits, in part due to the health care overhaul. The Indianapolis-based company operates plans in 14 states and primarily does business as Anthem Blue Cross and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

Anthem Inc. merged with WellPoint Health Networks in 2004 and the combined company took the name Wellpoint Inc.